Laryngeal mask airway in patients with tracheal stents who are undergoing non-airway related interventions: report of three cases

Anesthesia and airway management for removing pulmonary self-expanding metallic stents

The use of bronchoscopically placed self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) and silastic stents in patients suffering from tracheobronchial stenosis or similar problems has proven to be an important clinical option. When complications occur, it may be necessary to remove the device. Removal of a SEMS is usually performed during general anesthesia with muscle relaxation and positive pressure ventilation, often using total intravenous anesthesia. Airway management depends on stent type and location. Intubating patients' tracheas with a tracheal stent requires special caution, as it risks damaging tissue and dislodging the stent distally. Potential complications with removal include tracheal disruption, retained stent pieces, mucosal tears, re-obstruction requiring new stent placement, the need for postoperative ventilation, pneumothorax, damage to the pulmonary artery, and death.

Anesthetic considerations for airway stenting in adult patients

The attributable morbidity from central airway obstruction is significant. Airway stenting provides a therapeutic option to manage these complex lesions. This article focuses on the relevant anesthetic considerations of airway stenting in adult patients.